“If gluten causes a flare, staying away is the best option,” says Domingues. A spike in your blood sugar prompts the body to produce pro-inflammatory chemicals called cytokines, which can worsen your RA symptoms if the inflammation affects your joints. These foods can also cause you to put on the pounds, stressing your joints.
Living with arthritis can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing food choices. While there is no specific diet that can cure arthritis, certain foods may exacerbate symptoms and inflammation in the body. It’s important to be mindful of what you eat to help manage your arthritis pain and discomfort.
Foods to avoid with arthritis:
More research is needed to determine how sulforaphane in broccoli may help with inflammation. The benefit may be down to the natural components of these vegetables, known as glucosinolates, which can have an anti-inflammatory effect. Besides adding a burst of flavor to teas, soups, and sweets, ginger may also help ease the symptoms of arthritis. Here are some frequently asked questions about osteoarthritis and diet. Dark leafy greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K and stress-fighting phytochemicals and antioxidants.
If you have arthritis, making the right dietary choices can not only help manage your symptoms but also reduce the risk of complications, help boost your overall well-being, and improve your quality of life. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet can help people stay healthy and avoid the symptoms of chronic inflammation. One of the most researched anti-inflammatory diets is the Mediterranean diet.
1. Processed foods:
A 2019 mouse study found that arthritis was more severe in mice that consumed a high salt diet than in those whose diet had less salt. Additionally, for some people, following the Mediterranean diet may be a way to lose weight without counting calories or limiting portion sizes. Usually, inflammation protects the body from harm by defending against infection and aiding wound healing.
Diets high in omega-6 fats and low in omega-3 fats may worsen symptoms of knee pain, which is common with OA and RA. This type of fat can be harmful because it reduces “good” cholesterol levels, increases “bad” cholesterol levels, and increases inflammation. Some types of alcohol, like red wine, can have anti-inflammatory properties because they contain antioxidants. In fact, drinking no more than 5 ounces of red wine per day has been shown to promote joint health.
Processed foods are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to inflammation in the body. These types of foods can worsen arthritis symptoms and should be limited or avoided as much as possible.
2. Sugary drinks:
Beverages like soda and sweetened juices can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to increased inflammation. Opt for water, herbal teas, or unsweetened beverages instead to help manage arthritis symptoms.
While some proponents of fasting (especially intermittent fasting) say there are pros to fasting before and after a workout, science proves otherwise. Fasting before a long or intense workout may do more harm than good, at least according to some studies. There may be both advantages and disadvantages to fasting before a workout. If you’re on the edge of the path of totality, however, you might consider making a short trip to get closer to the center of the eclipse’s path. Once you figure out where you’re going to watch the eclipse, and you’ve got your supplies, try to get there early. Although traffic is likely to be heavier than normal on the morning of eclipse day, it still should be possible to reach many destinations without too much hassle, says Upchurch.
3. Red meat:
Red meat is high in saturated fats, which can trigger inflammation in the body. Consider limiting your intake of red meat and opting for leaner protein sources like chicken, fish, or plant-based proteins.
FAQs about diet and arthritis:
- Can dairy products worsen arthritis symptoms?
- Are nightshade vegetables bad for arthritis?
Dairy products may trigger inflammation in some individuals with arthritis. Consider reducing your intake of dairy products or opt for lactose-free alternatives.
Some people may experience worsened arthritis symptoms from nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. Pay attention to how your body reacts to these foods and adjust your diet accordingly.
By being aware of the foods that can potentially worsen arthritis symptoms, you can make informed choices to help manage your condition. Consult with a healthcare provider or a nutritionist for personalized dietary recommendations tailored to your specific needs.
